Piperine: Increases bioavailability of heart healthy nutrients

Piperine is alkaloid found in black pepper which is mainly used to treat digestion problems and improve absorption of nutrients.

It can increase blood levels of curcumin, resveratrol, diindolylmethane(DIM), lycopene, anthocyanins, citrus bioflavonoids, EGCg as well as other phytonutrients. However, it has other benefits, too.

ALKALOID AND HEART DISEASE

Since it is an antioxidant, it can prevent oxidation of cholesterol as well as reduce total and LDL cholesterol. However, it can also protect red blood cells from damage. Red blood cells are essential for transporting oxygen to every part of the body via blood vessels.

Red blood cells and oxygen levels have significant role on cardiac muscle function and heart rate.

Besides these benefits, piperine posseses natural anti-inflammatory characteristics. It may even improve circulation and prevent blood clots but its mode of action is still unclear.

Since it improves digestion, it can also be used to prevent heartburn.

DIGESTION

Alkaloid from black pepper is able to increase the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach which helps break down foods and increases the absorbtion of nutrients.

However, it seems that it is also able to stimulate digestive tract as well as neutralize bacterias and parasites in the intestines, while supporting the growth of good bacterias and healthy intestinal flora.

Healthy intestinal flora reduces the risk of gastric ulcers, diarrhea, bloating, constipation, candida, helicobacter pylori as well as cancers of the colon and stomach. Besides increasing the secretion of gastric acid, piperine may also stimulate other intestinal enzymes, such as amylase, lipase and trypsin.

By stimulating digestive enzymes and acids, the alkaloid helps clear out any lingering chunks of food which haven't been fully digested. This way, it helps clear out the digestive tract and the intestines thereby reducing the risk of diverticulitis.

TOXICITY AND INTERACTIONS

While it can increase the absorbtion of phytonutrients, the alkaloid can also increase level of toxic chemicals from food and medications. In high doses, these toxic chemicals interfere with normal function of our endocrine, immune, cardiovascular and nervous system.

On the other hand, otherwise safe prescription drugs can become dangerous, in combination with bioperine supplements or black pepper.

Also, while small amount of black pepper seem to be beneficial, high amount can be dangerous. It can be toxic and damage the organs, especially the liver.

CONCLUSION

Before mixing piperine with supplements and especially medications, consult with your doctor.

Black pepper and its alkaloids are also useful for lowering the risk of diabetes, improving mood and boosting metabolic processes in the body which may help with weight loss.

You can either take bioperine supplements or add black pepper to your meals. I get it in both forms. If you want to add black pepper to your meals, sprinkle it after you cook the food since the heat may degrade and destroy the chemicals in it.